Nov. 25, 2010
By: Dushan Mladenovic, ASU Media Relations
The Sun Devils knocked off the Houston Baptist Huskies 73-55 in the first round of the Great Alaska Shootout in Anchorage, Alaska. Trent Lockett led ASU with 17 points. Freshmen Kyle Cain and Keala King both added 13 points off the bench.
The Huskies (0-4) were led by senior Andrew Gonzalez who racked up 26 points. Guard Miles Dixon added 14.
The Sun Devils finished the game shooting 43.8 percent (28-64). They continued to struggle from behind the arc shooting only 22.2 percent (6-27). ASU dominated the boards taking in 46 rebounds with Kyle Cain getting 17 of them on his way to his first career double-double. The Sun Devils reserves were able to put up 32 points outmatching the Huskies seven points off the bench.
ASU dominated the first half with efficient defense holding the Huskies to 19 points. Though leading 32-19 going into the half, the Sun Devils did not take advantage of their opportunities. ASU was 33.3 percent from the field (12-36) and 14.3 percent (2-14) from behind the arc. Trent Lockett led the team in the first half with nine points.
ASU's offensive troubles continued in the second half. Miscommunications and missed shots allowed the Huskies to bring the score within five with just over eight minutes left in the second half but senior Rihards Kuksiks was able give a spark with a couple of three pointers while ASU went on a 13-0 run. The Sun Devils were able to stay in a double digit lead from that point on recording their second win of the season (2-1).
The Sun Devils tenacious defense held the Huskies to only 37.7 percent shooting from the field (20-53) and forced 16 turnovers.
The Sun Devils played without senior Ty Abbott who sat out due to a minor knee contusion.
The Sun Devils take on Weber State in the second round of the Great Alaska Shootout tomorrow night at 10 p.m. The game will be aired on FS Arizona.